Stockholm: Guided Natural Ice Skating Tour with Lunch & Fika

If you’re craving an authentic Swedish winter experience that combines adventure, natural beauty, and cultural charm, the Guided Natural Ice Skating Tour in Stockholm might be just what you need. For around $193 per person, this 7-hour excursion offers a chance to glide across frozen lakes, learn new skills from friendly guides, and enjoy traditional Swedish treats—perfect for those wanting an active day out in scenic surroundings.

What we love about this tour is how it balances easy-to-follow instruction with beautiful winter landscapes. The guides, like Jonas, are praised for their professionalism and friendliness, making even nervous beginners feel safe and confident on the ice. Plus, the experience isn’t just about skating—it’s about soaking in the peaceful winter scenery and connecting with local culture through a warm lunch and fika around a campfire.

A possible consideration is the weather dependency, which is a common factor for any outdoor ice activity. If the ice conditions aren’t safe, the company makes an effort to offer an alternative, like a winter hike, ensuring your day isn’t lost. This flexibility helps make the experience worthwhile regardless of the weather.

This tour suits anyone eager to try ice skating in a natural setting, especially those who appreciate small group sizes (max 8 guests per guide) and well-organized safety instructions. It’s particularly appealing for travelers who enjoy scenic outdoor activities and want to learn a new skill in a supportive environment.

Key Points

Beautiful natural scenery surrounds the frozen lakes, providing a stunning backdrop for ice skating.
Professional guides ensure safety and help improve your skating skills, even if you’re a beginner.
All equipment including skates, helmets, and safety gear is provided, making it a hassle-free experience.
Local culture is woven into the tour through traditional fika and insights from the guides.
Flexible scheduling and options for alternative activities if ice conditions aren’t ideal.
Great value for a full day of outdoor activity, culture, and scenic beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Stockholm Ice Skating Tour in Detail

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The Itinerary: From Meeting Point to Frozen Lake

The adventure begins with a 10-minute walk from Skanstull or Mariatorget metro stations or an 8-minute stroll from Stockholm Södra station. The meeting point sets the tone for a relaxed day, and from there, a comfortable minibus whisks you out of the city into the countryside or lakeside areas—where Stockholm’s winter magic truly unfolds.

Once at the lake, you’ll receive comprehensive safety instructions, which many reviews highlight as reassuring. The guides do a commendable job of explaining the equipment, safety measures, and techniques for skating. One reviewer noted, “We watched a safety video, and I felt completely safe with Jonas on the ice,” illustrating the level of professionalism.

Learning and Gaining Confidence on the Ice

The core of this experience is learning to skate on natural ice. The instruction strikes a balance—group practice sessions mixed with individual coaching—making it easier to develop confidence. Several reviews mention that even complete beginners found themselves skating comfortably by the end, with one participant describing how they “progressed faster than expected.”

The small group size (up to 8 guests per guide) ensures personalized attention, which is especially valuable for nervous skaters. As one reviewer put it, “The guide was fantastic, and I felt well taken care of. We even watched a video on what to do if you fall through the ice, which was very reassuring.”

Enjoying the Scenery and Stops

As the group gains confidence, they skate at a gentle pace, stopping frequently to admire the stunning winter views. The pristine ice, surrounded by snow-dusted trees and icy landscapes, makes every glide feel like a quiet, enchanting voyage. The tranquility of the frozen lake is a highlight, with some reviews mentioning how “the feeling of skating on a completely frozen lake is awesome.”

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The Lunch and Fika Experience

Midday, everyone gathers around a campfire for a warm, homemade lunch—often a comforting soup with bread, cheese, and biscuits—perfect for refueling. The experience is elevated by the friendly guides who share insights on Swedish culture and traditions.

After lunch, a traditional Swedish fika awaits—delicious pastries, cookies, or perhaps a cinnamon bun—paired with tea, coffee, or glögg (Swedish mulled wine). Reviewers consistently praise the quality of the food and the cozy atmosphere, with one saying, “The lunch was lovely, and sitting by the fire with tea and biscuits was so relaxing.”

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Returning with New Skills and Memories

By the end of the day, most participants are skating smoothly enough to feel proud of their accomplishment. The combination of scenic views, friendly instruction, and authentic local food creates a well-rounded experience. When it’s time to head back, you’ll leave with fresh memories, perhaps some photos of your glide across the ice, and most importantly, a new skill.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

While many outdoor winter activities exist in Stockholm, this ice skating tour stands out because of its comprehensive approach. It’s not just about sliding on ice—it’s about learning, safety, and culture. The small group setting enhances the personal touch, and the guides’ attentiveness builds confidence, making it accessible even for beginners.

Plus, the quality equipment (new for 2024) ensures comfort and safety, and the inclusion of dry bags and helmets adds peace of mind. The flexibility to skip the activity if weather conditions aren’t favorable, replaced by an alternative such as a winter hike, demonstrates thoughtful planning and respect for the environment.

The Value for Your Money

At nearly $200, this tour offers a full day of active, scenic fun, paired with local cuisine and cultural insights. You’re paying for expert guidance, high-quality gear, transportation, and authentic experiences—all of which make the cost justified for many travelers seeking a memorable winter adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure seekers wanting to try ice skating in a natural, scenic setting, especially if they enjoy learning new skills in a small, supportive group. It’s also suited for culture enthusiasts who appreciate a cozy fika and insight into Swedish winter traditions. That said, it’s best for those comfortable with outdoor activity and willing to dress warmly, as proper clothing is essential for comfort and safety.

Practical Tips for a Great Experience

Dress in layers: wool or polyester base layers, a windbreaker, hat, gloves, and thermal socks are highly recommended.
Bring sunglasses: snow and ice can reflect bright sunlight, making eye protection worthwhile.
Wear sturdy, warm footwear: your own footwear can go under the provided skates, so choose waterproof boots.
Arrive a little early: to get fitted with equipment and hear the safety briefing.
Be flexible: weather conditions can change, but the tour operator aims to keep the day active and enjoyable.
Reserve in advance: especially during peak winter months, as spots fill quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed for beginners and includes thorough safety instructions, equipment, and guidance to help you gain confidence on the ice.

What should I wear?
Bring warm, breathable outdoor clothing—wool or polyester layers—and accessories like gloves, a hat, scarf, sunglasses, and thermal socks. The company recommends avoiding cotton.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, including transportation, skating, lunch, and fika.

What happens if the ice isn’t safe?
The guides will do their best to organize an alternative activity, such as a winter hike. In the last winter season, no excursions were canceled due to ice conditions.

Are the equipment and safety gear included?
Yes, skates, helmets, knee and elbow pads, poles, ice picks, backpacks, and dry bags are provided, with new gear as of 2024.

Can I join if I don’t speak English or Swedish?
The tour is offered in English and Swedish, so English speakers should have no trouble understanding guides.

Is this activity family-friendly?
It’s suitable for those over 12 years old; younger children might find it more challenging or less comfortable.

Final Thoughts

The guided natural ice skating tour in Stockholm offers a memorable blend of adventure, cultural charm, and scenic beauty. With expert guides, quality equipment, and a warm lunch, it delivers great value for those eager to experience winter in a way that’s active yet relaxed. The small-group format fosters personalized attention, making it ideal for beginners or anyone wanting a supportive environment to learn a new skill.

While weather can influence the day’s plans, the tour’s flexibility and focus on safety ensure it remains a reliable choice for winter travelers. Whether you’re visiting Stockholm for a few days or seeking a unique outdoor activity, this tour promises a wonderful day on the ice, with plenty of opportunities for fun, learning, and cozy Swedish hospitality.

To sum it up, if you’re looking to embrace Stockholm’s winter landscape in a hands-on way, enjoy local flavors, and learn something new, this ice skating tour is a fantastic pick. It’s best suited for active travelers who appreciate scenic landscapes, friendly guides, and a laid-back yet enriching experience. Just remember to bundle up, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready for a day that could turn into one of your favorite memories of Stockholm’s winter wonderland.